Kirk Cousins Agent Releases Statement Calling Out Falcons After Shocking Selection Of Michael Penix

Everyone was caught off guard by the Atlanta Falcons selecting Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.. even Kirk Cousins.

Cousins’ agent, Mike McCartney, confirmed during Thursday’s first round that the quarterback was surprised by Atlanta’s decision to draft a quarterback in the first round:

From Kirk Cousins’ agent Mike McCartney on the #Falcons’ selecting QB Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall. pic.twitter.com/XpIpOQn1ua

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 26, 2024

The statement comes after a report surfaced from NFL Network’s Jane Slater saying that Cousins was “shocked and disappointed” in the decision.

he does have a no trade clause. For those wondering, 90M next 2 years, 10M in 2026 guaranteed

— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) April 26, 2024

The Falcons called Kirk Cousins when they were on the clock to let him know.
From what I learned, Cousins understood a QB would be considered but he did not believe his successor would be taken in the first round. I’m told he’s a bit stunned.

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 26, 2024

Cousins signed a four-year contract worth up to $180 million in March after spending the last six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. Atlanta made the pick despite players like Rome Odunze and Olu Fashanu still being available.

Penix was the fourth quarterback taken in the draft, with Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye going 1-2-3 to start the 2024 NFL Draft.

Penix threw for 4,903 yards and 36 touchdowns in 2023 and led Washington to a 14-1 record and an appearance in the CFP National Championship.